The two-day training on the establishment of a mangrove nursery, held from December 20 to 21, 2024, was organized to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge for mangrove nursery development and management. The event began at the SNSU Learning Resource Center (LRC) with registration and the opening program, which included a prayer, the singing of the national anthem, the SNSU hymn, and opening remarks delivered by Extension Director Ms. Alvie Elma Plaza.

The opening ceremony featured a message from Dr. Romy Jun A. Sunico (VP RIE) and an introduction of resource speakers by Ms. Louella S. Degamon, the Project MARECON Lead Extensionist. Jilla Ortiz and Johnny Teric served as Masters of Ceremonies throughout the event.

Morning sessions covered key topics such as “Introduction to Mangal Ecology” by Ms. Annie Rose G. Albano and “Basics in Establishing Mangrove Nurseries” by Ms. Mayjosine R. Lagahit. The open forum that followed allowed participants to engage with the resource speakers and clarify concepts. In the afternoon, Ms. Albano led a discussion on “Management and Operation of a Mangrove Nursery.” The session was followed by hands-on activities led by Ms. Degamon, where participants from BSES and BSED-Science programs designed and presented layouts of their own mangrove nurseries. The day’s activities concluded with an awarding of certificates and tokens of appreciation to the resource speakers and a photo opportunity with faculty extensionists.

The second day of training continued at the Nabago Community Hall, Surigao City, beginning with a registration facilitated by Ms. Rosalia L. Hugo, MARECON faculty-extensionist, and student extensionists. The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Hugo, followed by an address from Dr. Manny P. Eviota.

The training proper commenced with an “Introduction to Mangal Ecology” session led by Mr. Jerry T. Cuadrado and Ms. Roselle Bertulfo. The next topics, “Basics on Mangrove Nursery Establishment” and “Management and Operations,” were presented by Ms. Hugo, Dr. Eviota, and Ms. Degamon. An open forum followed to address questions from participants. The afternoon session featured hands-on activities led by Mr. Marcelo J. Cabasa, NACAMDA Chair. Participants engaged in practical exercises and shared their outputs. The training concluded with the awarding of certificates and tokens of appreciation to speakers and participants. Ms. Roselle E. Bertulfo expressed gratitude to all involved, emphasizing the importance of active participation in ensuring the project’s success.

The training was marked by the enthusiastic involvement of local leaders, faculty members, and participants, highlighting the community’s commitment to mangrove conservation and sustainable environmental practices.